Master of Science in Nursing Student Handbook.

Transcription

1 Master of Science in Nursing Student Handbook

2 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO SCHOOL OF NURSING TABLE OF CONTENTS General Information Tab Mission Philosophy of the School of Nursing Program... 2 Conceptual framework and Curriculum Model... 4 Description of Program... 6 Graduate Program Outcomes... 7 Admission Requirements... 8 Required Courses and Schedule of Courses... 9 Course Rotations Progression in the Program URSA Registration Instructions SON Academic Appeals Assistantships and Scholarships, Sigma Theta Tau Students Dishonest Acts Signature form for Plagiarism modules Opportunities for Student Involvement Campus Resources Graduate School Information Know Graduate School Requirements Continuous Registration Policy Transfer Credit Policy and Paperwork Petition For Exception SON Clinicals Tab Students in Clinical Sites SON Affiliation Agreement Request Form Health and Safety Requirements FNP/CNL Graduate and Faculty Health Clearance Form Malpractice Insurance... 33

3 FNP Clinicals Tab Requirements for Clinical Rotation - FNP General Clinical Preceptor Information Sheet - FNP CNL Clinicals Tab MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON Comprehensive Exam Tab- FNP Comprehensive Exam Process Guidelines/Expectations for the Comprehensive Presentation Comprehensive Exam Evaluation Form Master s Degree Thesis Option CNL Projects Tab MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON Graduation Tab Graduation Information Application For Graduation... 47

4 General Information

5 MISSION OF UNC SCHOOL OF NURSING The Mission of the UNC School of Nursing, congruent with the Mission of the University, is to provide teaching, scholarly activity and service in the discipline of nursing. The School of Nursing strives for excellence as reflected in highly qualified faculty, rigorous academic standards for students and a commitment to quality professional practice outcomes within all healthcare settings revision adopted by NFSO 1

6 UNC School of Nursing Philosophy Statement Health care practice, lifelong education, and service form the foundation for professional nursing. Professional nursing practice is operationalized through the use of critical thinking, evidence-based practice, research, the nursing process, and the establishment of collaborative interdisciplinary relationships with the goal of promoting the health of individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations, with attention to diverse and vulnerable populations. Each individual is a holistic, bio-psycho-social and spiritual being evolving and developing over the lifespan within a dynamic environment. The individual interacts and develops relationships as a member of a family and culture within a larger diverse community and global society. Respected as unique beings, all individuals have a right to health. Individuals interact, influence and are influenced by groups or aggregates within the larger population and global society. Society and culture are a functional and integrated whole with interdependent parts. Political, legal, ethical, economic, and spiritual components of society and culture converge with health systems to form an operating whole. Health is a dynamic state that is individually and collectively defined. Health integrates the physical, psycho-social, spiritual, and emotional states of well- being. Health care is in a constant state of change. Numerous societal demands require creative interventions, alternative settings, collaborative partnerships and coalitions to maximize health care delivery. The delivery of modern health care depends on an expanding group of educated professionals coming together as a interdisciplinary team. Nursing, as a caring profession, is both an art and a science that promotes, supports, and restores optimal health and enhances quality of life in individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations. It is a professional discipline that is an integral component of health care delivery systems. The professional nurse is a designer, manager, coordinator, and provider of safe, quality care based on current evidence from nursing science and other related disciplines. Additional professional roles include the nurse as educator, leader, health systems manager, researcher, and advocate for social justice through health care policy. Professional standards of moral, ethical, and legal conduct are integral to professional nursing practice. Professionalism involves an awareness of personal beliefs, biases, health, and their impact on choices and behaviors. The nurse is responsible and accountable for advancing the profession of nursing and for continued professional growth. Learning is a lifelong process that involves the acquisition and enhancement of knowledge, skills and attitudes. The professional nurse is educated with a foundation in the liberal arts, sciences, and humanities, as well as the discipline of nursing. The educational process of the professional nurse includes intellectual inquiry and critical analysis; communication and collaboration; respect and caring; leadership and professionalism; and therapeutic nursing interventions. Students in all programs move from relative dependence to functioning independently, in preparation for assuming professional responsibility in new roles. Students have a responsibility to be actively involved in the educational process which is seen as a collaborative relationship between students and faculty. The nursing faculty is a community of nurse scholars committed to creating an environment that promotes intellectual inquiry and sensitivity to diversity of ideas. Faculty members maintain expertise in the specialty areas in which they teach, as well as in teaching-learning practices. They serve as role models for theory-guided nursing practice and education, professional and community service, collaborative partnerships, scholarly inquiry, and health policy development. The nursing faculty is committed to the recruitment and retention of diverse students and faculty. Quality distance 2

7 learning environments facilitate greater educational access for students in all programs. As part of the University community, faculty members contribute to the operations and vitality of the College, the University, and the profession. The nursing faculty believes that the entry level preparation for professional practice as a generalist nurse is the baccalaureate degree. Graduate education at the master s level prepares students for practice, leadership and educational roles. The Doctor of Nursing Practice prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice roles. The PhD is the terminal degree in the discipline, focusing on nursing science, research and education revision adopted by NFSO 3

8 University of Northern Colorado School of Nursing Conceptual Framework The conceptual framework of the University of Northern Colorado s School of Nursing is an outgrowth of the philosophy of the SON and reflects the faculty s philosophical beliefs about the major conceptual cornerstones of nursing. The conceptual framework provides faculty with an outline for a defined, cohesive, logical curriculum with learning experiences which will achieve desired educational outcomes. The framework focuses on four major theoretical constructs (health, environment, clients and nursing) and five outcome concepts (therapeutic interventions, intellectual inquiry and analysis, communication and collaboration, respect and caring, and leader/manager/professional roles). The corresponding curriculum model (see Figure I) depicts the inclusion of these theoretical concepts throughout the undergraduate and graduate curricula. Health and Environment: The UNC-SON faculty members regard the World Health Organization s seminal definition of health (wellness) as integral to the conceptual framework: Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Far from being a static state, health is viewed as a dynamic interaction of multi-dimensional forces of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as social / economic environment, physical environment, and individual personal characteristics and behaviors. These determinants of health function interdependently and are considered simultaneously in order to promote well-being and social justice. A holistic approach to health emphasizes the promotion and maintenance of health and the prevention of illness or injury rather than just the treatment of symptoms and disease. Health awareness and personal involvement assist clients to achieve or maintain a state of optimal health. Illness and injury are alterations of health in individuals, families, groups, communities or populations. Human responses to illness and injury are unique and influenced by perceptions of self and others and by determinants of health. Illness and injury may result in changes in structure, function, roles, relationships, cultural practices, and spiritual values and beliefs. Clients may have an alteration in health, yet still achieve optimal functioning and quality of life. Alterations in health may be acute or chronic, and require a process of adaptation in order to achieve maximum health. Clients and Nursing: Client-centered interactions between client and nurse are the foundation of caring relationships. Nurses look beyond the individual to significant others, families, groups, communities and populations and as clients requiring care. Nurses engage in theory-guided, evidence-based, therapeutic interventions to provide ethical, safe, quality care. Inter- and intra-disciplinary communication, collaboration, and referral for identified client needs are integrated into nursing practice. Nurses enter into respectful and caring relationships with clients across the lifespan and at all levels of growth and development, with attention to diverse and vulnerable populations. Nurses provide leadership with a focus on safety, quality improvement, effective communication, client advocacy, coordination of care, use of technology, systems operations, and fiscal responsibility as they provide care in a variety of healthcare settings. Professional responsibilities include life-long learning, participation in professional organizations, and advocacy in the development of healthcare policy revision adopted by NFSO 4

9 UNC SON CURRICULUM MODEL Doctoral Masters BSN Liberal Arts Education Foundation Intellectual Inquiry and Analysis revision adopted by NFSO 5

10 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAM The graduate program in nursing prepares professional nurses with an MS in Nursing in one of two emphasis areas: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL). The Masters programs are accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. The Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in FNP prepares the post-baccalaureate nursing student for advanced clinical practice in primary care of families. The program is consistent with the characteristics of graduate education accepted by the National League for Nursing, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties. The graduate is eligible to apply for national certification upon program completion. Part-time enrollment is currently available. Compliance with health policies, OSHA requirements, CPR and ACLS certification are required. Background checks and drug screens are required upon admission. The program provides the expertise valuable for generalist primary care practice in a variety of settings. Such practice is both autonomous and interdependent in nature and direct in its care services provision. The Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis in CNL prepares the post-baccalaureate nursing student for advanced generalist nursing practice providing leadership at the point of care. Graduates will be prepared to oversee the care coordination for patients, assess risks, develop quality improvement strategies, facilitate team communication and implement evidence-based solutions at the unit level. They will provide direct care services while exercising clinical judgment, systems improvement, and patient advocacy. This program is also consistent with the characteristics of graduate education accepted by the National League for Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Clinical Nurse Leaders work with other members of the healthcare team to provide improvement in quality and safety of care. Completing the program qualifies participants to sit for the Clinical Nurse Leader Certification exam, a mark of excellence that signifies that the CNL possesses the skills and requisite knowledge to practice in this capacity. Part-time enrollment is currently available. Compliance with health policies, OSHA requirements, CPR certification is required. Background checks and drug screens are required upon admission. Participants have the opportunity to take additional nursing education courses as part of the program, leading to a certificate in nursing education. This will prepare them as clinical instructors and/or nurse educators, as well as CNLs. The certificate includes a minimum of 9 credit hours. 6

11 University of Northern Colorado School of Nursing Master s Program Outcomes 1. Acquire, critically analyze and apply advanced knowledge to evidence-based practice in the care of individuals, families and populations. 2. Apply leadership skills in various health care systems for management of and accountability for care delivery and improved outcomes. 3. Participate in intra/interdisciplinary collaboration and advocacy for health care delivery and the development of health care policy. 4. Synthesize knowledge of safety, quality improvement, culture, ethics and healthcare technologies in the design and provision of direct and indirect care. NFSO

12 NURSING GRADUATE STUDENT ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Admission Criteria 1. A bachelor s degree from an NLN or CCNE accredited institution with an upper division major in nursing. 2. Eligibility for Colorado licensure as a registered nurse. 3. Meet Graduate School requirements. 4. Two letters of reference. 5. A statement of career goals. 6. A resume or curriculum vitae. 7. One year of clinical experience is preferred. 8. A personal interview may be required. 8

13 REQUIRED GRADUATE COURSES FNP CNL Credit Hours Graduate Nursing Core Courses NURS 606 Research and Evidence-based X X 3 Practice in Nursing NURS 507 Policy, Leadership and Nursing Issues X X 3 Practicum Hours NURS 601 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced X X 3 Nursing NURS 504 Quality and Safety X X 3 Graduate Supporting Coursework NURS 610 Health Assessment X X 3 45 NURS 612 Advanced Pharmacology X X 4 NURS 614 Advanced Pathophysiology X X 3 NURS 616 Measurement of Clinical Outcomes for X 3 Advanced Nursing Practice NURS Health Promotion and Disease X 3 Prevention NURS 690 Advanced Professional Role X 2 Family Nurse Practitioner NURS 640 Health Care of Families I X 4 90 NURS 645 Health Care of Families II X 4 90 NURS 650 Health Care of Families III X 4 90 NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum X Clinical Nurse Leader NURS The CNL: Managing Clinical X 3 45 Outcomes NURS 625 The CNL: Managing Care X 3 45 Environments NURS 635 The CNL: Developing Leadership X 4 45 Roles NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for CNL X Optional Nurse Educator Certificate Courses NURS 631 Teaching Strategies for Practice and 3 Education NURS 661 Curriculum and Evaluation for Practice 3 and Education NURS 695 Advanced Academic Roles in Practice 3 and Education NURS 521 Clinical Instruction in Nursing 3 9

14 SCHEDULE OF GRADUATE NURSING COURSES Fall Spring Summer NURS 504 Quality and Safety Course NURS 504 Quality and Safety Course NURS 601 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Nursing NURS 610 Health Assessment NURS 624 Health Promotion and Disease Prevention NURS 614 Advanced Pathophysiology NURS 635 The CNL: Developing Leadership Roles NURS 645 Health Care of Families II NURS 650 Health Care of Families III NURS 631 Teaching Strategies in Nursing NURS 521 Clinical Instruction in Nursing NURS 507 Policy, Leadership and Nursing Issues NURS 606 Research and Evidencebased Practice in Nursing NURS 616 Clinical Outcomes Measurement NURS 620 The CNL: Managing Clinical Outcomes NURS 640 Health Care Families I NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for Clinical Nurse Leaders NURS 690 Advanced Professional Role NURS 661 Nursing Education Seminar NURS 695 Advanced Academic Nursing Roles NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum NURS 612 Advanced Pharmacology NURS 625 The CNL: Managing Care Environments NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for Clinical Nurse Leaders If the course is full when you try to enroll, you may contact the instructor to see if they are willing to take an additional student (they are not obligated to do so). If you must have a course in a given semester in order to progress appropriately or graduate on time, please confer with your program advisor. Scheduling of a course for a particular semester is subject to change without notice. 10

15 FNP PROGRAM Part-Time Planning Rotation Fall NURS 601 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Nursing (3) NURS 614 Advanced Pathophysiology (3) Summer NURS 612 Advanced Pharmacology (4) Fall NURS 610 Health Assessment (3) NURS Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (3) Fall NURS 645 Health Care of Families II (4) NURS 650 Health Care of Families III (4) Comprehensive Examination Summer, if split practicum hours NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum (1-9) Spring NURS 606 Research and Evidence-based Practice in Nursing (3) NURS 507 Policy, Leadership and Nursing Issues (3) Spring NURS 640 Health Care of Families I (4) NURS 504 Quality and Safety (3) Spring *NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum (1-9) NURS 690 Advanced Professional Role (2) Graduation NURS 610 Health Assessment... Clinical Requirement 45 hours NURS 640 Health Care of Families I... Clinical Requirement 90 hours NURS 645 Health Care of Families II... Clinical Requirement 90 hours NURS 650 Health Care of Families III... Clinical Requirement 90 hours * NURS 680 Advanced Practice Role Practicum... Clinical Requirement 405 hours (may be divided over 2 semesters) Courses may not be taken out of sequence. CNL PROGRAM Part-Time Planning Rotation Fall NURS 601 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Nursing (3) NURS 614 Advanced Pathophysiology (3) Summer NURS 612 Advanced Pharmacology (4) Fall NURS 610 Health Assessment (3) NURS 504 Quality and Safety (3) Summer NURS 625 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Managing Care Environments (3) Fall NURS 635 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Developing Leadership Roles (4) Summer, if split practicum hours NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for Clinical Nurse Leaders (1-7) Spring NURS 606 Research and Evidence-based Practice in Nursing (3) NURS 507 Policy, Leadership and Nursing Issues (3) Spring NURS 616 Clinical Outcome Measurements (3) NURS 620 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Managing Clinical Outcomes (3) Spring NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for Clinical Nurse Leaders (1-7) NURS 610 Health Assessment... NURS 620 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Managing Clinical Outcomes... NURS 635 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Developing Leadership Roles.. NURS 625 The Clinical Nurse Leader: Managing Care Environments. Clinical Requirement 45 hours Clinical Requirement 45 hours Clinical Requirement 45 hours Clinical Requirement 45 hours * NURS 681 Advanced Role Practicum for CNLs... Clinical Requirement 315 hours (may be divided over 2 semesters) Courses may not be taken out of sequence. All students may elect to complete a master s thesis (6 credits of NURS 699). 11

16 PROGRESSION IN THE PROGRAM Students are expected to progress according to the Program of Study provided by their advisor. Any exceptions must be discussed with the advisor and approved by the Assistant Director of Graduate Programs in nursing. Requirements must be successfully completed within five years of first registration following admission to the program. All courses must be completed with a minimum grade of B. One course may be repeated if the grade is lower than B. The repeated course will be recorded on the student s transcript, and both letter grades will count toward the cumulative grade point average. A second grade below B will be grounds for dismissal from the program. Incomplete Grades (as per UNC policy): A grade of I can be assigned when coursework is not completed at the end of the semester due to sickness, family emergency, or other serious emergency that occurs during the last week of the semester and prevents the students from completing academic responsibilities. Documentation will be required. Completion of the course requirements must be done by the end of the following semester. 12

17 URSA REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS URSA is the secure entry point and personal portal for University of Northern Colorado students, faculty and administrative staff. Among the many options available to students through this portal are access to Bearmail, your student records, and course registration. Accessing Ursa 1. Using a web browser, go to the URSA site at If you are a new student, follow directions at the bottom left hand side of this page; or click on new student on the top left side of this page. If you have a pop-up blocker installed on your computer you will need to follow the instructions on the screen in order to access URSA. 2. In the Secure Access Login area of you will need to enter your User Name (the first eight characters of your Bearmail) and Password (the same password that is used to access Bearmail) and then click the Login button. 3. There will be several tabs across the top of the screen. To register you will need to click on the Student tab. Registering in URSA 1. Find the correct 5-digit course reference number (CRN) by going to the Extended Studies coursework menu: Scroll down to your program and cohort, and click on your program. Available coursework will be listed with the course reference numbers. You will need the course registration numbers (CRN) to register. 2. Access URSA following instructions above, and login to URSA as previously instructed. To register, click on Student Tab 3. On the student tab there is a Registration Tools menu. In this menu you will need to select Register, Add or Drop Classes. 4. Select the appropriate term and submit. 5. From this point on you can register for class on the Add Classes worksheet. 1. Enter the CRN s of the courses for which you want to register. 2. Click the Submit Changes button at the bottom of the page. 3. Read the instructions at the top of the page and scroll down to check for registration errors. 4. Review your current schedule. 6. When you have finished registering go back to the Student Tab by clicking on the Student and Financial Aid tab. 7. To view your schedule, select the Registration menu item. From here you can look at your Student Detail Schedule, Week at a Glance or Registration History. All three of the choices will give you a different view of your schedule. 8. To logout, click the Logout icon in the top right corner of the screen. 13

18 Common Registration Error Messages Time Conflict course times overlap. Choose a different section for one or both of the conflicting classes, then add both classes to your registration. Approval permission has not been processed. See the appropriate person to have the permission processed. Once it has been processed you will need to web register for the course. This applies to course pre-requisites, co-requisites, and major/college restrictions. Class Closed the course section is full. You will need to register for another section or course. Link Error You have registered for a lab or lecture section without the corresponding lecture or lab. Use the Add Class area to add BOTH the lecture and lab sections at the same time. PIN If you are registering in Fall or Spring terms and you are required to enter a unique PIN, your adviser will provide that number for you or you can contact the Office of Extended Studies. ( or ) URSA Portal Entry Troubleshooting If you have problems logging on to URSA please contact the Technical Support Center at or Registration Troubleshooting If you have problems registering for your classes, if they are closed, or if it is requiring a prerequisite, please contact the Registrar s Office at or the Office of Extended Studies at or Logging onto Your Online Class ACCESS your online/blackboard course by using a browser and typing in the following URL: or USERNAME: -first 8 characters of the UNC generated /bearmail address PASSWORD: -is the same as you use to access URSA and your bear account -the address added to the Blackboard system will be the student's universitygenerated address Please consider logging onto the UNC Blackboard Help site for more assistance with your online course at: and click on Student Help. There are tutorials that will help you learn and understand more about online instruction that you can take advantage of. 14

19 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO/SON/NF-SO Sponsoring Committee: Graduate Leadership Team Title of Policy: SON Academic Appeals for Graduate Students 9/87 Date adopted by NF-SO Date reviewed for currency & initial: 9/92 2/20/98 J.R. 12/01 2/07 12/6/10 NFSO 11/12 GLT POLICY: The purpose of the procedures outlined below is to provide the student with easily implemented means for appealing an academic decision that he/she considers unwarranted or capricious. With respect to an appeal of a course grade, the appeal will be for a course grad of below B for all graduate students. Before utilizing these procedures, or between any of the appeals steps outlined below, the student should seek advice from his/her academic advisor. It is further recommended that attempt at mediation between student and instructor be pursued. PROCEDURE: STEP 1: 1A: A conference with the instructor involved for the purpose of trying to resolve the problem. 1B: If no resolution is reached in Step IA, the student should request a conference with the program coordinator. (If the instructor involved is the program coordinator, the student would then schedule a conference with the Graduate Assistant Director.) 1C: If the problem remains unresolved, the student may petition by filing the grievance with the Graduate Assistant Director. The Graduate Leadership Team (GLT) will hear input from both the student and faculty involved. Both parties must submit written data to the committee. GLT may make recommendations to a faculty member. STEPS 2 If the student does not believe the above has resolved the problem, the student shall request a conference with the Director and then with the Dean of the College as outlined in the University Academic Appeals Procedures. 15

20 GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS / TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIPS / TRAINEESHIPS Availability is determined on a year-to-year basis and announcements are sent by when application is available. GA/TA Description: The recipient of the award will be required to work 8-10 hours per week (.20 FTE for each semester). Responsibilities may include assisting in online courses or in faculty research projects. The Graduate Assistant/Teaching Assistant will receive an established University salary or stipend. The student may also have some or all of that semester s tuition paid by the Graduate School. Traineeship Description: UNC receives Federal traineeship funds. The criteria and application form are distributed to each enrolled student by . SIGMA THETA TAU, ZETA OMICRON CHAPTER Zeta Omicron chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the International Organization for Nursing Scholarship, invites qualified MS students to join the organization each year. The following awards are sponsored by the organization: Drennan Award The Drennan Award sponsored by Dr. Phyllis Drennan, former Dean of the School of Nursing, is awarded one or two outstanding graduate nursing student/s each year. Graduate nursing faculty nominate students for the award. The candidates will be evaluated by the selection committee on their commitment to nursing, professionalism, research activities, and professional growth achievements. The Drennan Award recipient(s) will receive a certificate of recognition, stipend and his/her name engraved on the Drennan Award Plaque displayed in the School of Nursing. Research Award Money for small grants may be available on an annual basis. Interested students should check the Zeta Omicron Chapter website for contact a board member for details. 16

21 STUDENTS DISHONEST ACTS The School of Nursing has a policy regarding student dishonesty (see Policy and Procedure Regarding Students Dishonest Acts). The following information is provided to clarify the act of plagiarism as this is considered to be a dishonest act. Plagiarism:... means to use someone s ideas, research, published or/ unpublished works as your own. Quotation marks should be used to indicate the exact words of another. Summarizing a passage or rearranging the order of a sentence and changing some of the words is paraphrasing. Each time a source is paraphrased, a credit for the source needs to be included in the text. (APA, 2001, p. 399) For additional information, refer to the American Psychological Association (2009). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th ed.) Washington, DC: author. Academic Integrity Modules For additional information on plagiarism, if you have not already done so visit: Academic Honesty Students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the highest standards of academic honesty. Cheating, plagiarism, illegitimate possession and disposition of examinations, alteration, forgery, or falsification of official records or documents and similar acts or the attempt to engage in such acts are grounds for disciplinary action. This action can include any of the following, in addition to any University disciplinary action: A failing grade for an assignment. A failing grade for a class. Required remediation. Dismissal from the program. Students are referred to the Student Conduct Code, and the section on plagiarism in the Graduate Catalog. Safe Assignment is used in Blackboard courses for submission of written work including written comprehensive exams. 17

22 I certify that I have read, understand, and agree to the terms set forth in the plagiarism modules. I will certify that I will not plagiarize any of the documents created by myself or as a group for this program. I will also agree to follow the University Honor Code. University Honor Code All members of the University of Northern Colorado community are entrusted with the responsibility to uphold and promote five fundamental values: Honesty, Trust, Respect, Fairness, and Responsibility. These core elements foster an atmosphere, inside and outside of the classroom, which serves as a foundation and guides the UNC community s academic, professional, and personal growth. Endorsement of these core elements by students, faculty, staff, administration, and trustees strengthens the integrity and value of our academic climate. Student Signature: Date: Student Name: 18

23 OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENT INVOLVEMENT POLICIES FOR STUDENT(S) INTERACTION(S) AND INFLUENCE IN THE GOVERNANCE SYSTEM OF THE SCHOOL OF NURSING A. About the governance structure of the School of Nursing The governance structure is guided by the School of Nursing by-laws, adopted by faculty. The by-laws have been revised throughout the years; the last revision was completed in NURSING FACULTY STUDENT ORGANIZATION (NF/SO) This is a committee of the faculty as a whole plus student representatives from all levels. It meets several times per semester for communication of information and for decision making regarding Nursing program policies. In addition, there are subcommittees which also meet every semester for Graduate Affairs (policies and issues for graduate programs) and Graduate Curriculum (curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation). Student representatives have full voice and vote in all these meetings with the exception of declared executive sessions. Student representatives receive the meeting agendas and minutes, and mailboxes are provided for them in School of Nursing Office. NFSO and subcommittee meetings are open for any interested student to attend. They are often scheduled on Friday mornings or afternoons (check with a faculty member or the office staff for dates). Graduate nursing students annually select one or more representatives to attend meetings of the NFSO, the Graduate Leadership Team (GLT), and the Graduate Curriculum Committee (GCO). Be sure you know who your representative is. All students are encouraged to contact their representatives in person, in writing, by or by phone to share questions and feedback about programs and issues. B. Most important, about student participation in the governance of the School of Nursing: Students are elected by their peers to represent them at meetings of the Nursing Faculty- Student Organization and its subcommittees. Faculty value student input and hope that students take appropriate advantage of the opportunities to participate. 19

24 CAMPUS RESOURCES WRITING CENTER Staff can assist in improving writing skills. Appointments can be made online and staff will provide online assistance with writing. The Writing Center is provided by the English Department and can be accessed at MICHENER LIBRARY Stephanie Wiegand is our reference librarian. She can help you search for materials or narrow down a topic stephanie.wiegand@unco.edu She is also a resource for questions on APA writing style. COMPUTERS ON CAMPUS If you have need of a computer when you are on campus, UNC has available two computer labs on the first floor of Gunter Hall for typing papers, internet access and course assignments. Computers are also conveniently located in many other campus buildings. You will need your UNC ID. GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION This is a student organization that provides graduate students with information on matters related to graduate students including financial support to attend and/or present at conferences and to support research projects. See RESEARCH CONSULTING LAB Assistance with research and statistical issues are provided through the Research Consulting Lab in the Department of Applied Statistics and Research Methods located within the College of Education. Information can be found at HIRING A TYPIST, EDITOR, OR TRANSCRIPTIONIST The graduate school maintains a list of people who can be hired by students for these services. More information can be found at 20

25 Graduate School Information Policies and Forms 21

26 KNOW GRADUATE SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS You may receive reminders from your advisor, but ultimately it is your responsibility to know about the Graduate School policies and deadlines and follow them. The UNC Graduate School home page is Under Current Students you will find deadlines, guidelines for theses and dissertations, forms, and more. Here are some of the key Grad School things to pay attention to: You must enroll in courses during the first year of admission. A form is available to apply for an exception. For every semester you do not enroll, the Graduate School will bill you $150. This amount is subject to change. The deadlines posted cover dates by which examination results must be filed, proposals must be filed, and ultimately when dissertations must be filed. As a general rule, dissertations must be filed about one month prior to the end of the semester. School of Nursing policies will also apply and are to be found in this Student Handbook. ***Please note that the Graduate School requirements supersede this Handbook. Every effort is made to keep this handbook up to date, but information and forms should be verified with the Graduate School Website to be sure that you have to most up-to-date information and/or version of a form. 22

27 Taken from Graduate School website 23

28 TRANSFER CREDIT Transfer Credits (from other accredited colleges or universities) Transfer credits must be from an accredited institution that grants doctoral degrees, must be graduate level, compatible with student s program, and must be A or B work. Transfer credit cannot be used to meet any residency requirements and is not used in calculation of the grade point average. The form, Petition to Count Work in a Degree Program, and an official transcript are required. All work counted in a degree program must be completed within the five-year time limit allowed for master s degree. Courses requested for transfer must meet all criteria for credit transfer (see general transfer policies) to be approved by the Graduate School. Transfer work is not used in the calculation of the graduate grade point average. Graduate credit earned in off-campus or extension courses is not transferable unless it is acceptable to the major school and to the Graduate School. Transfer credit will not be accepted if the work was used to obtain a degree or is included as part of another degree at any institution. Transfer work must be approved by the school and must be A or B work. Transfer credit cannot be used to meet any residency requirement. Transfer credit cannot be used to make up C, D, F, or U grades. Courses graded S/U are not transferable unless documentation can be obtained from the originating institution stating that the S grade granted is equivalent to an A or B grade. All program requirements, including transfer work, must be completed within the time limits of the degree program, i.e., five years for the master s degree, six years for the specialist degree, or eight years for the doctoral degree. Transfer courses must be numbered as graduate level according to the course numbering system at the originating institution. Transfer courses must be from accredited institutions of higher education that offer equivalent level degrees (e.g., doctoral degrees if transferring graduate credit into a doctoral program). 24

29 TRANSFER OF GRADUATE CREDIT FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS University of Northern Colorado Graduate School Name Bear Number Address Degree Program UNC GRADUATE TRANSFER REQUIRMENTS: Transfer credit from another accredited institution must be graduate level and compatible with the student s program. Transfer credit must be B or better work. Transfer credit is not used in the calculation of the grade point average. Transfer credit must be within the time frame of the degree program. This is five calendar years for the master s degree, six calendar years for the specialist degree and eight years for the doctoral degree. Transfer credit cannot have been used to fulfill requirements for a previously earned degree. COPY EXACT COURSE TITLE AS RECORDED ON TRANSCRIPT. UNC EQUIVALENCY OR ELECTIVE CREDIT MUST BE INCLUDED. AN OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT IS REQUIRED. Institution Course Title UNC Equivalency Term/Year Sem/Qtr City/State Prefix & No. or Elective Credit Completed Hours Grade Total transfer hours requested: I request the above courses be accepted into my master s specialist doctoral program. Student Signature Date APPROVAL: Program Advisor Date Program Chair Date Graduate School Date Revised 10/2011 Do Not Copy This form. Use the form on the Graduate School website ( 25

30 GRADUATE STUDENT PETITION FOR EXCEPTION University of Northern Colorado Graduate School Name Bear Number Program Address Phone # Degree Level State the specific policy to which you are requesting an exception and the reasons for the exception. Explain how the exception would enhance your academic program, allow you to continue your academic program, allow you to recover from lost opportunity due to health or traumatic events or allow you to profit from unique educational opportunities impeded by Graduate School regulations. If requesting an extension, describe specific steps, proposed timeline and evidence of progress toward completing degree program requirements. This form should be returned to the Graduate School after attaining appropriate signatures (attach additional pages, if necessary). Student Signature Date Signature of Program Chair Date Signature of Program Advisor Date Signature of Graduate School Date Note: Exceptions to Graduate School policy is not automatic and are not granted for reasons of personal or financial convenience or to accelerate completion of program requirements. Advisor and chairperson signatures indicate support for the petition as represented. 26

31 SON Clinicals Documents and Policies 27

32 STUDENTS IN CLINICAL SITES Revised January A student may not enroll for course credit and be paid for the same clinical hours. 2. If a student is an employee of a site or has any other formal relationship with the site where s/he has been placed to do clinical work as a student, roles must be clearly defined and separated, in writing and in advance of the placement, as follows: a. A faculty supervisor must be listed for each student. b. Program or course content and educational objectives for the student s experience at the site must be detailed. c. If a student is also an employee of site or has a formal relationship with the site, the hours in which the student is functioning as an employee/in the other role vs. the hours the student is functioning as a student must be defined. 3. In order to avoid potential conflict between the site s expectations regarding levels of productivity related to site objectives and the student s use of clinical time to meet STUDENT objectives, a student may not bill for a service s/he provided while in a student role. 4. Preceptors: a. No preceptor may hold student status in the same degree program, in the same graduate certificate program, or in the corresponding MN focal area/dnp specialty, as a student s/he is precepting. b. The student s preceptor of record - or an approved, temporary designee - must be on-site at the same time as the student. 28

33 UNC School of Nursing AFFILIATION AGREEMENT REQUEST FORM (return completed form to (The School of Nursing has existing clinical agreements across Colorado. Students are also welcome to develop their own clinical sites. However, it may take 2-3 months to establish new contractual arrangements, so students should begin work early with the School of Nursing office to make those arrangements. Complete the Affiliation Agreement Request form and submit to the office as soon as the clinical site is approved by faculty. Students may not participate in clinicals in any agency until there is a current affiliation agreement in place.) Student Name: Phone: Proposed Clinical Site: Preceptor Name: Clinical Dates: Administrative Assistant/Front Office Contact Information Name: Address/City/State/Zip: Phone: Fax: Clinical Course & Hours: Clinical Overview/Purpose (very brief summary, just a few words): OFFICE USE ONLY: Affiliation Agreement: YES Dates: NOTES: NO Initiated Date: 29

34 School of Nursing NURSING GRADUATE FNP STUDENTS HEALTH & SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR CLINICAL AND PRACTICUM COURSES Rationale for Health and Safety Requirements Clinical agencies are required by their accrediting and regulatory bodies to guarantee that staff, students, faculty and visitors meet health and safety standards. There are periodic audits by agency representatives to verify that the School of Nursing (SON) is compliant. Student cooperation in meeting the Health and Safety Requirements will enable students to have access to the clinical sites that are a requirement for their graduate education. CLEARANCES DUE WITH APPLICATION 1. RN License: Submit with application. To confirm that there are not restrictions on your license, print verification from DORA website (Colorado) or from your state s licensing website. ( CLEARANCES THAT MUST BE INITITATED UPON ACCEPTANCE 1. Background Check (FBI Fingerprint Record Search): Order a federal and state background check (FBI Fingerprint Record Search) from American DataBank at American DataBank will mail all necessary forms to student for background check. SON will receive results directly from American DataBank. Please allow 10 to 16 weeks for processing background check. 2. Drug Screen: Order a ten-panel drug screen through American DataBank at American DataBank will mail necessary form to student for drug screen. SON will receive results directly from American DataBank. CLEARANCES DUE BY FIRST DAY OF CLASSES TO BE KEPT CURRENT THROUGHOUT CLINICALS RENEWAL / DUE DATE Renewal by 1 st of the month in which it expires. RENEWAL / DUE DATE Ordered ASAP after admission to the program August 1 st of first semester RENEWAL / DUE DATE 1. OSHA Test Administration: Done in class or online. Renewals done in class. 2. Initial Health Clearance: See Attached Sheet. 3. CPR: Certification must be for Healthcare Provider or Professional Rescuer, and training must have included hands-on practice. Submit photocopy of front and back of CPR card. 4. ACLS: Required for NURS 610 Advanced Health Assesement. 5. Malpractice Insurance: Obtain through the recommended company (see Malpractice Insurance Policy) or through an insurance company of student s choice. Submit photocopy of Certificate of Insurance (a receipt of purchase is not sufficient), which must indicate medical specialty and coverage amounts. August 1 st of 2 nd Year PPD renewal Due on the 1 st of the month in which PPD expires. August 1 st of 2 nd Year Renewal due by the 1 st of the month in which it expires. August 1 st of 2 nd Year No renewal required. August 1 st of 2 nd Year Renewal due by the 1 st of month in which it expires. 6. Yearly Influenza vaccination Due in the Fall annually It is ultimately the responsibility of the student to keep track of expiration dates and to submit renewals by the first of the month deadline. If this documentation is not provided to the SON by the deadline, student will be considered out of compliance with the policy and not eligible to proceed in the nursing program. If dropped from courses, once verification of renewal is shown, student will be allowed to re-register, but a processing fee may be assessed by the Registrar. Document copies may be: Mailed to UNC SON, th Street, Campus Box 125, Greeley, CO or Faxed to or Dropped off in the Nursing Office in Gunter 3080 or ed to Mellany.Archer@unco.edu 30

35 School of Nursing NURSING GRADUATE CNL STUDENTS HEALTH & SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR CLINICAL AND PRACTICUM COURSES Rationale for Health and Safety Requirements Clinical agencies are required by their accrediting and regulatory bodies to guarantee that staff, students, faculty and visitors meet health and safety standards. There are periodic audits by agency representatives to verify that the School of Nursing (SON) is compliant. Student cooperation in meeting the Health and Safety Requirements will enable students to have access to the clinical sites that are a requirement for their graduate education. CLEARANCES DUE WITH APPLICATION 1. RN License: Submit with application. To confirm that there are not restrictions on your license, print verification from DORA website (Colorado) or from your state s licensing website. ( CLEARANCES THAT MUST BE INITITATED UPON ACCEPTANCE 1. Background Check (FBI Fingerprint Record Search): Order a federal and state background check (FBI Fingerprint Record Search) from American DataBank at American DataBank will mail all necessary forms to student for background check. SON will receive results directly from American DataBank. Please allow 10 to 16 weeks for processing background check. 2. Drug Screen: Order a ten-panel drug screen through American DataBank at American DataBank will mail necessary form to student for drug screen. SON will receive results directly from American DataBank. CLEARANCES DUE BY FIRST DAY OF CLASSES TO BE KEPT CURRENT THROUGHOUT CLINICALS RENEWAL / DUE DATE Renewal by 1 st of the month in which it expires. RENEWAL / DUE DATE ORDER after admission to the program ORDER ASAP after admission to the program RENEWAL / DUE DATE 1. OSHA Test Administration: Done in class or online. Renewals done in class. 2. Initial Health Clearance: See Attached Sheet. 3. CPR: Certification must be for Healthcare Provider or Professional Rescuer, and training must have included hands-on practice. Submit photocopy of front and back of CPR card. 4. Malpractice Insurance: Obtain through the recommended company (see Malpractice Insurance Policy) or through an insurance company of student s choice. Submit photocopy of Certificate of Insurance (a receipt of purchase is not sufficient), which must indicate medical specialty and coverage amounts. August 1 st of 2 nd Year PPD renewal Due on the 1 st of the month in which PPD expires. August 1 st of 2 nd Year Renewal due by the 1 st of the month in which it expires. August 1 st of 2 nd Year Renewal due by the 1 st of month in which it expires. 5. Influenza vaccination: annual in the fall. Annually in the fall. It is ultimately the responsibility of the student to keep track of expiration dates and to submit renewals by the first of the month deadline. If this documentation is not provided to the SON by the deadline, student will be considered out of compliance with the policy and not eligible to proceed in the nursing program. If dropped from courses, once verification of renewal is shown, student will be allowed to re-register, but a processing fee may be assessed by the Registrar. Document copies may be: Mailed to UNC SON, th Street, Campus Box 125, Greeley, CO or Faxed to or Dropped off in the Nursing Office in Gunter 3080 or ed to Mellany.Archer@unco.edu Revised 3/7/